Happiness Held Back: Guidelines for Keeping Joy Out of Passport Photos

Expressing joy is not allowed in passport photos. A neutral facial expression with a closed mouth is required.

Joy or happiness is a positive emotion that is associated with a sense of contentment and satisfaction with one's surroundings or circumstances. It is characterized by positive feelings about oneself and the environment, and is often accompanied by a sense of calm and relaxation. People who experience joy or happiness generally do not feel a strong need to change their circumstances.

If positive feelings persist over a long period of time, it is referred to as happiness. Intense, exuberant joy is known as euphoria.

Facial Expressions of Joy

When people experience joy or happiness, their facial expressions can be very telling. These expressions often include:

Rules for Showing Joy in Passport Photos

However, in certain situations, it is important to maintain a neutral facial expression. In passport photos, a neutral expression is required. This means that the person must look directly into the camera with a neutral expression and a closed mouth. A wide smile or an open mouth is not allowed.

Showing any emotion, including joy, disgust, surprise, fear, anger, or sadness, is not allowed.